You’ll find the Greatest Snow on Earth® in Utah, and particularly at Salt Lake’s ski resorts. This proud claim refers to more than just the texture of the snow. Location and weather patterns are key. Accessing the snow is incredibly easy with four resorts close to the city. Plus, many famous athletes have honed their skills on Salt Lake’s slopes, so the powder is pro athlete-approved. It’s easy to see why adrenaline enthusiasts from all over the world travel to experience the Greatest Snow on Earth®.

Ski Salt Lake Shootout 2009

Snow Science

While locals and travelers alike may vouch for the quality of the snow, there is a science behind our claim to the best snow on earth. According to research by University of Utah’s atmospheric scientist Jim Steenburgh, the combination of climate conditions that brew over the Wasatch Mountain resorts in Salt Lake City's Cottonwood Canyons is the reason why many believe Utah snow is the best for deep-powder skiing and riding. Salt Lake’s proximity to the Great Salt Lake and the nearby mountains create the perfect recipe for the Greatest Snow on Earth®. While many parts of the U.S. have wet, heavy snow that make skiing a chore, Utah snow is a light, powdery texture perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and adventuring.

Downtown Salt Lake Skyline in Winter

Four Resorts Thirty Minutes From Downtown

Four playground options await travelers in Salt Lake: Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude. While each resort has the same quality of snow, they all possess distinctive personalities ranging from laid-back to luxurious. Three of the resorts are only a 30-minute drive from Salt Lake’s vibrant downtown. Make the most of your visit and go during the week to avoid the long lines that tend to form on weekends. What can we say – our slopes are popular! A short drive and even shorter lines leave you with more time to play.

UTA Ski Bus

Easy to Get There, Easy to Stay

If you choose to stay in the city, public transportation to and from the mountains as well as inexpensive ski shuttles are readily available and easy to use. There are plenty of incredible lodging options right in the downtown area, like the Element Hotel and the evo hotel. For those seeking lodging on the mountain or at its base, there are phenomenal options ranging from cozy Airbnbs to big resorts.

Video Thumbnail - youtube - Explore Ski City's Ski Resorts: Snowbird

Little Cottonwood Canyon:

Alta & Snowbird

Alta, a skiers-only resort, has been family-owned since 1938. It’s located at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon deep in the Wasatch Mountains. Its welcoming atmosphere and spectacular terrain keep travelers coming back year after year. Nearby Snowbird is renowned for its luxurious offerings. From spa packages to mountain dining, visitors will feel rejuvenated and relaxed after a long day on the slopes. Even better, it offers ski-in, ski-out accessibility if you’re itching to hit the slopes first thing in the morning!

Discover Winter Program Participants at Brighton Resort

Big Cottonwood Canyon:

Brighton & Solitude

In Big Cottonwood Canyon, Brighton has a laid-back feel that attracts a younger crowd, especially avid snowboarders. It has a great combination of beginner and expert terrain, making it an excellent choice for families. Solitude offers some of the best, most pristine terrain in North America. Just 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake, its unhurried and attentive staff, family-friendly atmosphere, and variety of lodging options promise to make it a memorable experience.

Salt Lake Ski Super Pass

With four world-class resorts, it can be difficult to choose where to go. Luckily, the Salt Lake Ski Super Pass gives passholders access to all four of the resorts — Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude. It also includes public transit fare when the ski bus is in service, as well as rental shop discounts. The Salt Lake Ski Super Pass takes all the guesswork out of where to go and how to get there. Plus, there are no blackout dates, giving you maximum flexibility, so you can discover the best of Salt Lake skiing and riding.

Drew Petersen

Pro Skiers & Salt Lake Snow

The Greatest Snow on Earth® has also played a pivotal role in the lives of athletes. Drew Peterson, professional skier and year-round mountain athlete, developed a love for skiing in Salt Lake during family trips, and he later attended the University of Utah. On the Wasatch Mountains, he reignited his love for the area and all that it had to offer. The quality of the snow and the access to the mountains is what has kept him in the area for years. Alluring for professional athletes and avid ski fans alike, it’s clear why Utah has bragging rights to the Greatest Snow on Earth®.

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